CURATED: THE CALIFORNIA BESPOKE EXHIBITION

As a contributing editor to The Editor at Large, I was asked to curate an assortment of California made home furnishings and accessories for an exhibition last week called California Bespoke for the CA Gift Show. The 1,200 square-foot gallery featured the region's most influential designers, artists and craftsmen in a juried collective of custom furnishings, one-of-a-kind home accessories, jewelry and fashion accessories, stationery goods, hand-crafted objects and original works of art. "Curated and merchandised with this aspirational customer in-mind, California Bespoke cultivates a vibrant mix of regional, new-to-market offerings and time honored designs, creating a relevant and inspired buying experience to serve the modern retailer." The variety and depth of the choices on display were so amazing. I loved the idea of great homegrown talent, and embraced the opportunity to showcase artisan products that looked high design without being crunchy granola. And yes, California is at the forefront of many great design trends today from up-cycling to block printed fabrics, so it was really fun to participate in. Along with Vanessa Kogevinas, Get It! Consulting; Jason Oliver Nixon, John Loeke Interior Design; and Jennie Nunn, jennienunn.com, we searched for innovative designs in every corner of Northern and Southern CA. Christopher Gaona, christopher gaona, inc., created a stunningly produced display area that integrated the varied items, giving them a meaningful setting.
Take a look at what I chose here:

What is display in CA without bringing a little outside in? The California Gift show bespoke area stood out with giant faux topiary lettering.

Joe Cariati, the LA glassblower, makes some of the best hand-blown glass pieces. This smoky glass assortment of vases is from his Angelic collection.

I had to have something from West Hollywood's Hollywood at Home! The Chameleon Desk Lamp is a handmade ceramic lamp with Peter Dunham fabric insert.

A dog bed from Ferrick Mason textiles in Lucas Check brings a little canine style to the floor.


Their pillows add a kick of color to upholstery, this is Calliandra in green.

Hillary Thomas's Rock n' Rolla Finials of semi-precious stones from her Finial Touch collection through Chic Shop.

A selection of San Francisco-based Agraria scented candles in Petite Crystal Cane vessels. These are great if you want to make a hotel room seem fresh.

San Francisco potter Alex Marshall Studio's ceramic white nesting bowls have an imperfect, artisinal feel.

LA-based letterpress stationery purveyors Sugar Paper do personal, party paper as well as prints.

NO ORDINARY POST OFFICE

Edit edit edit. These three words come to mind whenever I visit one of my favorite retail meccas, The Brentwood Country Mart in LA. A destination for curated shopping and yummy food, the Mart takes the red barn exterior and turns it into an urban wonderland culling the best local independent brands from New York like Roberta Roller Rabbit and Turpan housewares, to homegrown heros like Sugarpaper and James Perse. Don't be fooled by the words country and mart though. This is as upscale casual as it gets, where every shop has amazing signage done in cool fonts on white hanging signs. Since 1949, you could visit for the barber shop, cobbler and post office. One gem at the Mart is the Trading Post. It reminds me of a little shop you might find in a small summer village in Maine that carries just the basics and sundry items. It originally served as a sub post office to residents of Brentwood, Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades and West Los Angeles. It has evolved, so now you can mail letters and packages and buy stuff. Go out of your way to visit the Mart, it is a hidden gem worth discovering!

Two crisp white doors swing open welcoming purveyors of chic. Everything is neat and tidy with merchandising perfection.

Need a camp blanket, yeah, theyve got that too.

A wall of stark white square cubby's with a rolling ladder are perfect for displaying product vignettes. Each object gets highlighted for it's unique qualities and pared down design. From canvas bags and Field Notebooks to espadrilles if it is chic and simple, then it is here.

Seed packs and a jaunty Hable Construction Garden Hat in the Gardening section (!)

Saint James nautical striped shirts that have become a summer staple

Checked paper napkins in a roll from My Drap for easy picnicking.

Talk about a return to the classics-- choose from all white or white and navy Tretorns.

And let's not forget about the classic cult Tee Shirt from Petit Bateau.

AND THE WINNER OF THE RED KAYCE BAG IS...

Jennifer said... is the winner of the Kayce Hughes Red Flower Bag! Thanks to all of you that entered by liking our Facebook pages and your loyal following! Stay tuned for more giveaways soon...

STYLISH TRAVELS: WHERE DESIGNERS ARE HEADED THIS SUMMER

With August around the corner, I thought I would find out where and how some stylish designers are spending the dog days of summer on vacation. You will be amazed- this set has nary an armchair traveler in the bunch- the places they visit will have you begging to go in their suitcase(s)!

Katie Ridder: In LA while my college bound daughter interns for Rose Tarlow.

Christina Murphy: A month in London studying contemporary art at Sotheby's!

Jonathan Adler and Simon Doonan: We just got back from Capri, which is heaven on earth. We ate mountains of pasta and gelato, frolicked in the sea, hiked hiked hiked, ate more more more, and.........wait for it........ lost 5 pounds!!!! It must be the good vibrations. We are spending the rest of the summer slaving away at our day jobs and escaping to Shelter Island when we can--it's the second best island (after Capri).

Tricia Foley: looking forward to a New England road trip in August to visit the Shelburne Museum in Vermont and the Wadsworth Atheneum in Connecticut researching American Federal furnishings ...plan to visit friends and find some good antique shops and ice cream along the way!

Leta Austin Foster: I am going next week up to my house in Maine. I will work in the woods, eat crab rolls (and maybe lobster, too), see my friends there and jog in my pool. I want to really enjoy our time there.

Shawn Henderson: I am working on an apartment in Singapore and I decided to take a last minute jaunt here (while on the other side of the world!) to see Angkor Wat. It's so amazing- unlike anything I've ever seen before.

Mary McDonald: I am going on a two week vacation in August with friend and fellow designer Michelle Nussbaumer and her family (also my god children) through Turkey and a 10 day boat trip near and around Bodrum! We might hit Greece too!! Shopping and pleasure! I also have a 3 day weekend in Cashier's Georgia for book signings lectures and relaxation and a week in East Hampton during the East Hampton Library authors night which I am participating.

Nathan Turner: My boyfriend Eric Hughes and I are going with Mary McDonald to Greece to meet up with the fabulous Michelle Nussbaumer and family to buzz around the isles on a boat.

Martyn Lawrence Bullard: In NYC working on the ad for my soon to launch F. Schumacher fabric collection , then onto Istanbul for a glam gala in honor of Roberto Bolle ... then of course, a little shopping in the Grand Bazaar and exotic fabric hunting. Next, onto London to look at a Sheiks apartment I'm doing there with a bit more shopping at Portobello and Camden Passage. Then it's back to LA for press launches for my book then a 2 week stay in Bora Bora and Tahiti for total relaxing / spa-ing and revitalization before I start my country wide Schumacher fabric and book tour.

Newell Turner, Editor in Chief of House Beautiful: I’ve already grabbed my (big) summer getaway. I took a 16 year old nephew sailing on a clipper in the Cyclades Islands of Greece and over to the Turkish Coast. It was fantastic! Fantastic! For the rest of the summer, it’s “escape to Twilight Field,” my little farmhouse up in the Catskills.

Lulu DK: This summer is the summer for ultimate lounging on the beach! Travel to distant places has taken a momentary hiatus now that I have 3 boys under 3 years old! So every day we head to the magical beaches of Long Island…pails, umbrellas, flip flops and fabulous new LULU DK for Matouk beach towels!

Rita Konig: After some time in London, I am headed to Ibiza and Positano, and we will make daily sailing jaunts on the Amalfi Coast. In Long Island, I visit Sag Harbor, I just love Ruby Beets and Bloom for a little household shopping.

Malcolm James Kutner: I will be riding under wide open skies in Colorado, in conjunction with a project site visit. Then taking a trip to the windswept and sublime Balearic isle of Formentera, followed by a few days in Capri. Weekends will end with bonfires on the beach in Montauk with days filled with sailing lessons in Sag Harbor.

Katie Leede: I'm indulging my daughter's passion for sharks and taking her cage diving with Great Whites in South Africa!

Rod Winterrowd: Heading to LA for a project where I will visit Mecox on La Cienega, get orchids from Beverly Hill Orchids.com (the world's best orchids arranged and delivered beautifully), buy books at Hollyhock, some pieces at Rose Tarlow, get a trim at Sally Hershberger on La Cienega, and have a McCarthy Salad and Passion Fruit Iced Tea poolside before I head back to New York.

Kristen McGinnis: I am thrilled to revisit my Southern roots as I am starting a new project outside of Savannah on the Ford Plantation. For my involvement in the architectural scope, I am excited to find inspiration by taking weekend field trips throughout the south to visit and research historical architectural landmarks.

PANEL DISCUSSION: JOIN ME AT THE CA GIFT SHOW 11am SATURDAY

If you are in LA, be sure to come to hear me moderate the Editors’ Roundtable: A Retailer Business Review for Editor at Large. We will discuss who today's savvy consumer is, how to best reach them and what the new world of retail and e-commerce looks like.
I am so excited to check out this market and find new sources!

Here is the scoop:
Moderator: Marisa Marcantonio, stylebeat.blogspot.com
Panelists: Caroline Kennedy, Editor-in-Chief, Gifts & Decorative Accessories; Jenny Heinzen York, Editor-in-Chief, Home Accents Today; Krissa Rossbund, Senior Design & Style Editor, Traditional Home
South Hall, Los Angeles Convention Center
July 23 I 11 am – 12 noon

The modern, well-informed and discriminating consumer has radically transformed the business of commerce … radically altering product trends and purchasing patterns forever. Navigating the complexities of this unprecedented influence, the nation’s leading trade and consumer publications convene on an Editors’ Panel addressing a range of issues from both industry and end-user perspectives. Learn the latest on economic and lifestyle choices affecting product trend, reinterpreting the value of traditional goods, the popularity of brands defining individual expression, sustainability and the regional, hand-crafted movement, retail in the digital age, and more.

Immediately following the panel, the Editors will be available for 15 minute, one-on-one Q&A sessions with buyers. First come first served.

Click here to RSVP for Editors’ Roundtable: A Retailer Business Review.

THE HOUSE THAT WINDSOR BUILT

The gracious wide entry with marble diamond pattern floors and hanging lanterns in a classical style

I missed the first ever Veranda House of Windsor in LA recently. Los Angeles - based interior designer/architect/renaissance woman Windsor Smith recently built an 8,000 square foot home on an acre of land with ground up construction. It became a showhouse and is now on the market. Working in tandem with other designers to create a home that reflected the best in California casual yet elegant living, the spaces embraced indoor outdoor living with a stable and landscaping by Inner Gardens. Interior designers Candace Barnes, Stephen Block, Peter Dunham, Richard Hallberg, Kathryn M. Ireland, Martyn Lawrence-Bullard, Paul Robbins, Richard Shapiro, and Tara Shaw joined Windsor to execute this vision. Presented by Veranda Magazine, the home, in Brentwood's Mandeville Canyon, was a show place for the way people live today. The result was an East coast Georgian home laid out graciously, to take advantage of West coast weather and lifestyle. I wish I had been there to see in person, alas, I can't be everywhere at once!

MEDIA ROOM BY MARTYN LAWRENCE BULLARD

MLB kicked it up a notch with kelly green accents, a Rug Company Alpaca rug, Benjamin Moore paint, Paul Evans sky scraper furniture and custom apple green lacquer tables and club chairs.

He included his Marjorelle fabric, DeSade sofas, and artwork by Guido Modofico, Andy Warhol and Damien Hirst.

RICHARD SHAPIRO'S LIVING ROOM

Antique dealer extraordinaire combined elaborate gilt antiques and interesting accessories.

CANDACE BARNES DRESSING ROOM

A serene palette was enhanced with a marble bust and zebra rug

WINDSOR SMITH'S KITCHEN

No one does a kitchen for living quite like Windsor does. She took me on a walk through of the space when it was in construction and the result is unreal. Open shelving allows for easy access and a farm sink with a marble apron is a lush touch. Painted grey mill work maintain the sophisticated tone.

BEDROOM BY PETER DUNHAM

A mix of ethnic patterns at the window and floral bed hangings create a romantic retreat. The palest coral pink walls are a great hue to wake up to.

Long panel curtains echo the roman shades across the room. A global printed fabric as a slip cover on a comfy chair makes for a relaxed spot.

Catch up on correspondence in the office at a kelly green desk and his How to Marry a Millionaire raffia chair work well together, and pop against the richly patterned walls.

RICHARD HALLBERG

In the dining room, a library and eating area converge. Round tables are a great way to facilitate conversation and can double as a display area for books when not in use.

KATHRYN M. IRELAND STABLE

Mandeville Canyon is horse country for LA dwellers

Is that horse wearing a blanket made from Ireland fabric? Natch!

A cozy spot to kick off your boots and relax

Her tack room meets sitting room has the right amount of vintage pieces to feel worn in and totally un fussy

Photos courtesy of Veranda
I think he wants to see what he is missing--

LOVING LILLY: A PEEK AT THE NEW FURNITURE

You can look at vintage stores and estate sales for eons, but why spend the time hunting for preppy pieces when you can buy these stunners that are well designed and brand spanking new?
After showing the new Lee Jofa Lilly fabrics, here is a look at the new furniture with HFI Brands. With classic Palm Beach Regency as it's muse, Lilly Pulitzer furniture is crisp and fresh. Comfortable and easy to live with, the new collection has fretwork, Chippendale and brass accents that will mix well with other pieces.
These select pieces are available through Neiman Marcus and Horchow.

Photos courtesy of Lilly
The Sara Sofa with a leg on casters and wide arm is great for kicking back or cocktails

Carrie loveseat in a linen blend fabric has back cushions and throw pillows for a cozy seat

Aster desk with brass frame. Underneath it is the Aster Rolling Accent Chest for storage.

Lillian side table with mesh top a rope frame and tassel feet

Boulevard armchair in hot pink with a Chippendale fretwork back and arm and white upholstered seat.

Aster vanity with classic round brass hardware, plenty of storage and a pop up mirror in the center.

Dining chairs and table

Mizner bench with bamboo details and cut corner handles

Yellow Bar Stools with Chippendale and flower backs will add a punch to breakfast and cocktail bar seating

Rousseau Ottoman is a clean form with storage

Paramount daybed has upholstered sides and a gold frame with classic cut corners

Aster floor mirror with circle detail border would look great in an entry hall or bedroom

PARKS AND RECREATION

Nauti and Co. Summertime Paddle Ball set comes in a great burlap case.

Photos courtesy of Nauti and Co.
If you find yourself on the beach for days on end this summer, pick up some paddles for a quick game of Paddle Ball. Take a break from the tan fest to score some aces. This classic paddle ball set from Nauti and Co. combines surfer chic stripes, a waterproof grip and their high design logo. Nautical style touches everything this company creates, from bar accessories to furniture, making it a great go to for summer gifts.

GET FRESH: NEW OUTDOOR FABRICS

Outdoor fabrics have come a long way from the standard issue hunter green and awning stripe. This season brings new fabric designers and a fresh perspective on bringing indoor fabrics to outdoor settings. Sitting poolside just got a whole lot chicer.

Kathryn M. Ireland's outdoor fabrics have a casual elegance. Reminiscent of seaside resorts, the set the tone for easy living.

Abu, an interlocking scroll and floral print has a punchy monochromatic impact.

Photos courtesy of Kathryn Ireland
The aqua color way is a cool pool blue

Photo courtesy of Pierre Frey
Pierre Frey's Merzouga has the look of elaborate Turkish tiles.

Photo courtesy of Clarence House
Resembling woven wicker, Basketry from Clarence House is a great trompe l'oeil print for outdoor furniture.

Photo courtesy of Chris Barrett Textiles
Big Sur from Chris Barrett Textiles resembles busting fireworks in a happy print.

Photo courtesy of Chris Barrett Textiles
Cambria, a watercolor wash from Chris Barrett Textiles looks like the bottom of a pool shimmering in the sun.

Photo courtesy of Link Outdoor
Link Outdoor is a newcomer to the outdoor fabrics scene. Created by Doug and Gene Myer, the fabric patterns have a zest and joy to them.

Photo courtesy of Link Outdoor
Their new French Riviera collection comes in juicy colors.

Photo courtesy of Galbraith and Paul
Vines fabric from Galbraith and Paul looks like a block printed fabric for indoors but is meant to challenge the elements.

Photo courtesy of Galbraith and Paul
Ripples, an irregular stripe in reds and yellow from Galbraith and Paul.

Photo courtesy of Galbraith and Paul
Ripples in green, burgundy and aqua from Galbraith and Paul.

Photo courtesy of Galbraith and Paul
Sunflower, an artsy floral in ocean.

Photo courtesy of Cloth
Ravenna, a now classic fabric in outdoor version from Chris Farr's Cloth line.

Photo courtesy of Cloth
Belfour ikat in shades of blue and white from Cloth.

Photo courtesy of Nomi
Tanglewood in oyster from Nomi Fabrics.

Photo courtesy of Nomi
Atmosphere in laguna from Nomi Fabrics is solution dyed acrylic.

Photo courtesy of Nomi
Nomi Fabrics Grecco Linea in acqua

Photo courtesy of Perennials
Perennials Color Pop in solution dyed acrylic with a zig and a zag in brush stroke prints

Photo courtesy of Perennials
An assortment of printed and solid pillows from Perennials